Paper 2: Resources Flashcards
Agribusiness
Application of business skills to agriculture.
Carbon footprint
A measurement of all the greenhouse gases we individually produce, through burning fossil fuels for electricity, transport, etc., expressed as tonnes (or kg) of carbon-dioxide equivalent.
Energy mix
The range of energy sources of a region or country, both renewable and non-renewable.
Food miles
The distance food is transported from the producer to consumers.
Fossil fuel
A natural fuel such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms.
Local food sourcing
A method of food production and distribution that is local, rather than national and/or international. Food is grown (or raised) and harvested close to consumers’ homes.
Organic produce
Food produced using environmentally and animal-friendly farming methods on organic farms. Artificial fertilisers are banned, and farmers develop fertile soil by rotating crops and using compost.
Resource Management
The control and monitoring of resources so that they do not become depleted or exhausted.
Aeroponics
Growing plants in an air or mist environment without the use of soil.
Biotechnology
The manipulation of living organisms to produce useful commercial products, such as pest-resistant crops and new bacterial strains.
Famine
A widespread, serious shortage of food that can lead to starvation and deaths.
Food insecurity
Being without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.
Food security
Having access at all times to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life.
Hydroponics
A method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions in water, without soil.
Irrigation
Applying water to land to supply crops and other plants with necessary water.
Permaculture
A system of agricultural and social design principles based on patterns and features observed in natural ecosystems.
Sustainable development
Development that meets present needs without limiting future generations’ ability to meet their own needs.
Sustainable food supply
Food produced in ways that avoid damaging natural resources, provide social benefits, and contribute to local economies.
The new green revolution
A combination of modern technology, traditional knowledge, and an emphasis on farming, social, and agroecological systems to improve yields, especially in poorer countries.
Undernutrition
Occurs when people cannot access enough nutrients for energy, growth, or maintaining a healthy immune system.
Urban farming
The growing of fruits, herbs, and vegetables, and raising animals in towns and cities, along with activities like processing and distributing food, and reusing food waste.
Grey water
Wastewater from homes that can be recycled for uses like laundry and toilet flushing. It can also irrigate plants, providing nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen.
Groundwater management
Regulation and control of water levels, pollution, ownership, and use of groundwater.
Over-abstraction
When water is used more quickly than it is replaced.
Sustainable water supply
Providing safe, reliable, and affordable water while minimizing environmental impact and supporting future generations.
Waterborne diseases
Diseases caused by microorganisms in contaminated water, often contracted through bathing, washing, drinking, or consuming infected food.
Water conflict
Disputes over freshwater distribution and use, often due to the gap between demand and supply.
Water conservation
Preservation, control, and development of water resources, including pollution prevention.
Water deficit
Occurs when water demand exceeds supply.
Water insecurity
When water availability is not enough to ensure the population of an area enjoys good health, livelihood, and earnings.
Water quality
Quality can be measured in terms of the chemical, physical, and biological content of water.
Water security
The reliable availability of an acceptable quantity and quality of water for health, livelihoods, and production.
Water stress
Occurs when the demand for water exceeds the available amount during a certain period or when poor quality restricts its use.
Water surplus
Exists where water supply is greater than demand.
Water transfer
Water transfer schemes attempt to make up for water shortages by transporting water from one river basin to another.
Biomass
Renewable organic materials, such as wood, agricultural crops, or wastes, used as a source of fuel or energy.
Energy conservation
Reducing energy consumption by using less energy and becoming more efficient with existing energy sources.
Energy exploitation
Developing and using energy resources to the greatest possible advantage, usually for profit.
Energy security
Uninterrupted availability of energy sources at an affordable price.
Geothermal energy
Energy generated by heat stored deep in the Earth.
Hydro(electric) power
Electricity generated by turbines driven by moving water.
Nuclear power
Energy released by a nuclear reaction, especially by fission or fusion, using uranium to make steam and generate electricity.
Renewable energy sources
Resources that are not diminished when used; they recur and cannot be exhausted, such as wind and tidal energy.
Solar energy
The Sun’s energy exploited by solar panels, collectors, or cells to heat water or air or to generate electricity.
Sustainable energy supply
Energy that can potentially be used well into the future without harming future generations.
Wind energy
Electrical energy obtained from harnessing the wind with windmills or wind turbines.
